The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued a federal order mandating that the national milk supply be tested for bird flu. This order was announced on December 6, 2024, and aims to address the rapid spread of the virus among dairy herds across the United States. Here are the key points of the update:
Scope of Testing: The testing involves monthly or weekly sample collection from bulk milk tanks and dairy processors. It will initially be rolled out in six states: California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and Oregon, with California, Colorado, and Michigan being particularly affected by the virus.
Background and Rationale: Since March 2024, over 500 dairy herds in California and more than 700 nationwide have been infected with bird flu, raising concerns about the impact on farmers, the milk supply, and human health. Nearly 60 people, mostly workers on infected poultry and dairy farms, have contracted the virus since April, with symptoms reported as mild.
Implementation: The USDA will begin this testing program on December 16, 2024. The pace of testing will be adjusted based on initial results, focusing on identifying new areas or states with the virus. Entities responsible for dairy farms, bulk milk transporters, and dairy processing facilities are required to share raw milk samples upon request.
Public Health Context: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that the risk to the general public remains low. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against consuming raw milk due to the potential for pathogen transmission, including bird flu, but reassures that pasteurized dairy products are safe because the pasteurization process kills these pathogens.
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